(KPL) The Lao PDR has officially launched its Infrastructure Asset Management Enabling Environment (IAM EE) Roadmap, marking a significant step forward in sustainable infrastructure development. The event took place in Vientiane and was hosted by the Ministry of Finance’s Department of State Asset Management, in partnership with the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS), the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA), and the UN Capital Development Fund (UNCDF).

The roadmap, which was formally handed over to the Ministry of Finance during the event, outlines strategic measures to ensure the effective management of public infrastructure, including roads, schools, and hospitals, with a focus on resilience, inclusivity, and sustainability. This marks a critical moment in Lao PDR’s infrastructure journey and its commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Bakhodir Burkhanov, the UN Resident Coordinator, emphasized the importance of continued collaboration in his opening remarks. “The successful implementation of this roadmap hinges on sustained commitment and strategic investment from all stakeholders—government, development partners, the private sector, and civil society,” Burkhanov stated. He stressed the need for dedicated funding mechanisms and technical expertise to achieve long-term benefits for the people of the Lao PDR.

Pierre-Yves Jousseaume, Senior Project Manager of UNOPS in the Lao PDR, echoed this sentiment, highlighting that the roadmap represents a crucial step in ensuring that infrastructure investments are not only delivered efficiently but are also sustained over time. “UNOPS is proud to support the Government of Lao PDR in strengthening infrastructure asset management through technical expertise, project implementation, and sustainable solutions,” he remarked.

Daniel Platz, Senior Economic Affairs Officer at UN DESA, stressed the broader impact of infrastructure, stating, “Infrastructure is more than a physical investment—it is an investment in people, resilience, and the future. By providing technical assistance, sharing global best practices, and empowering local governments, we are ensuring that infrastructure is not only built but built to last.”

The launch was attended by government officials, UN representatives, and key stakeholders, all pledging their commitment to the roadmap’s implementation. Deputy Finance Minister Phouvong Kittivong expressed confidence that 2025 would mark the beginning of the priority action plan’s rollout, leading to significant progress in the Lao PDR’s infrastructure development.

The IAM EE Roadmap’s launch signifies a crucial milestone in the Lao PDR’s infrastructure management. Going forward, the government and its partners will focus on mobilizing resources, strengthening institutional frameworks, and embedding best practices in asset management to ensure that infrastructure remains resilient and sustainable. Continuous collaboration and investment will be key to ensuring that these initiatives drive economic progress and enhance service delivery for communities across the Lao PDR.

The successful implementation of the roadmap will require joint efforts from national and local government entities, development partners, and the private sector, positioning the Lao PDR to enhance its infrastructure management capacity while working towards the achievement of its sustainable development goals.

KPL